Unleashing Potential: How Leke Ariyo Became a Global Site Reliability Engineer

The Journey from Nigeria to the Global Stage

Leke Ariyo’s journey to becoming a site reliability engineer (SRE) at a global bank is one that exemplifies ambition and strategic planning. Dreaming of a career beyond Nigeria, Leke diligently saved every paycheck during his time there. His goal was clear: to pursue a master’s degree abroad and lay down the foundation for a global career.

Upon receiving a fully-funded scholarship for his master's in machine learning and deep learning at Strathclyde University in Glasgow, Leke seized the opportunity. He states, "When you are working in Nigeria for a foreign company, there is not that much you really want to spend that can match how much you are earning. I just kept setting it aside, and when the time came, I was ready.” This foresight and discipline allowed him to pivot to a new career path that would open doors internationally.

The Role of a Site Reliability Engineer

Once in the UK, Leke embraced the responsibilities of an SRE, a position that is becoming increasingly crucial in the evolving tech landscape. Site reliability engineers are vital in ensuring that systems operate smoothly and efficiently, automating processes that otherwise slow down the engineering workflow. Leke explains, "There is that speed where we are always trying to improve timing, and at the same time, we use automation to reduce manual toil." SREs blend software engineering skills with operational efficiency, which makes the role suitable for remote work environments.

Although the demand for SRE positions dipped from their peak in 2023 when it was one of the hottest roles in tech, the need never diminished entirely. Companies, both startups and established firms, still require adept SREs to keep up with the technological demands of their services. This presents a valuable opportunity for professionals like Leke, who possess the necessary skill set, to thrive and contribute globally—regardless of their location.

Networking: The Key to New Opportunities

The right connections can often lead to unexpected job opportunities. After completing his master's degree, Leke attended a networking event that proved pivotal. He casually exchanged his CV and engaged in meaningful conversations, which led to interviews and eventually a coveted job at a global financial institution. His experience underscores how important it is to network and seize every opportunity presented, as the job landscape can be vastly competitive.

“Opportunities are massive,” he reflects. With the landscape of remote work offering flexibility, Leke highlighted that one doesn’t need to be in the same location as their employer's servers to have a significant impact. As long as aspiring SREs invest in their skill sets and network effectively, they can reach and manage systems serving millions worldwide from anywhere, including Lagos or Accra.

The Critical Nature of Reliability and Its Global Implications

The importance of site reliability cannot be overstated. As technology continues to play an integral role in business operations, ensuring these systems are efficient and resilient is paramount. On any given day, Leke might be setting up automation tools, optimizing cloud costs, or responding to production incidents. The work is a mix of routine tasks and unpredictable challenges, reflecting the dynamic tech environment.

Moreover, with growing competition and the rise of artificial intelligence, it’s essential for SREs to keep honing their skills to stay relevant as industries evolve. The demands of the global market require adaptive and knowledgeable professionals who can rise to challenges and ensure technological systems function continuously and securely.

The Future of Site Reliability Engineering

As industries across the globe continue to rely on tech solutions, the demand for skilled site reliability engineers will likely stabilize and regain momentum. Leke's story is not just a personal triumph; it reflects a broader trend within the tech industry where talent from diverse backgrounds is increasingly seen as a cornerstone for innovation and reliability. His transition from Nigeria to a significant role in the UK exemplifies the reach and influence of technology professionals.

By sharing insights derived from his journey, Leke inspires others looking to make their mark in tech. It’s a reminder that with determination and strategic planning, individuals can mold their career trajectories, regardless of their starting point.

Call to Action: If you're inspired by Leke Ariyo's journey and want to explore a career in site reliability engineering, consider investing in your education and networking efforts today. The global tech landscape is full of opportunities waiting for skilled individuals like you.